Intel Discontinues Optane 'Core+' Desktop Processor Bundles
Intel has killed off its “Core+” Optane boxed processor bundles for desktop PCs in the wake of Micron’s decision to buy out Intel’s stake in the 3D XPoint fab.
The Core+ branding was reserved for systems that shipped with both Core processors as well as Intel’s Optane Memory technology, which speeds up the other storage in your PC.
Intel said that it would discontinue the boxed Core i7+8700, i5+8400 and i5+8500 by Sept. 30 "due to lack of market demand," though that’s only if supplies of the chips are still available. The last shipments will take place Dec. 27.
Intel said in April that the company was launching “Core i5+,” “Core i7+” and “Core i9+” brands, complete with stickers, to help inform buyers that the Optane technology was migrating into notebooks and desktops, and that the bundle was offering more than just the processor itself.
Intel said that desktop buyers are choosing to buy Optane memory technologies and their desktop processors separately.